False Map Turtle

Range

The False Map Turtle is widely distributed throughout the areas of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. They have been recorded in the states of Arkansas, Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Habitats

This species frequents large rivers and backwaters. They are often seen along riverbanks and lakes, as well as basking on driftwood and large tree trunks in the middle of slow-moving bodies of water. They are very strong swimmers and spend much of their time in the water.

Identification

Adult males are typically 8 to 14 cm in length whereas the females are far larger in size measuring 20 to 26 cm in length. This turtle has a dark olive green carapace with a sharp back edge and a high dorsal keel in the middle. Its skin is dark in color with bright yellow lines flowing down its neck and limbs.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians